Thursday 18th July 2024

Dear Parents/Carers,

The end of the academic year has come round very quickly, it is always a time to take stock of the highlights and all that we have achieved. We are proud of how our young people have flourished and developed, making the most of learning opportunities within the classroom and all that is offered in our enriched curriculum. So many of our young people have shown growing resilience, preparing them for an ever-changing world.

This term’s Spotlight magazine showcases the highlights of the Summer Term, such as our vibrant Community Evening, farewell celebrations for Year 11 and 13 students and our Sports Days. A link to the magazine will be sent during the school holidays.

Non-Uniform Day and End of Term Arrangements – Friday 19th July 2024

Tomorrow, Friday 19th July will be non-uniform day. Students are to bring £1 if participating which will be donated to the Pete Brennan Trust. This is a school charity in memory of a former staff member and goes towards funding enrichment activities to support students in need. A reminder that students are not permitted to wear cropped tops and clothing with expletives. Hats are not to be worn indoors and students must still bring their lanyard with ID Card.

Please see below finishing times for your child’s year group on the day:

Year Group

Finish Time

Year 7

12.40pm

Year 8

12.20pm

Year 9

12.00pm

Year 10

11.40am

Year 12

10.55am

Staff Farewells

At this time of year, we sadly say goodbye to staff leaving us for pastures new and give our heartfelt gratitude for their services to the School.

I would like to particularly celebrate the work of three long serving colleagues, Sarah Owen, Iris Howes and Pip Ainsworth.

After an outstanding 27 years of service, Sarah, our Kitchen Manager, will be leaving us. Sarah has worked tirelessly over the years, keeping the children’s needs at the centre of the kitchen’s work. Sarah has a great sense of humour and caring nature which will be missed by us all.

Iris will be retiring after 22 years having helped support our most vulnerable students as a Learning Support Assistant. She has helped many of our young people to access the curriculum and reach their potential.

Pip who has worked at SNS for 18 years working closely with students offering pastoral support and supporting the transition of our Year 7 students will also be leaving us. Pip built confidence and resilience of our students when most needed through her care and expertise.

We also bid farewell to our Head of EPQ and English Teacher, Sean Phoenix, has secured a promotion as English Department Deputy starting in September. We thank them and all our staff who are leaving SNS this year for their hard work, enthusiasm and commitment to our young people. We wish them all the best in their next chapter.

A Level Results Day Thursday 15th August and GCSE Results Day Thursday 22nd August

We look forward to celebrating the successes of our Year 11 and 13 students this summer. If students are unable to collect their results on the day, and would prefer a designated person to collect, please complete the online form by clicking this link before Monday 12th August. This form can only be completed using your child’s school account. The designated person collecting results will be asked to show a valid passport or driving licence. Results will not be emailed.

Support During the Holiday

We understand that breaks during the school year can be difficult for some students and their parents/carers. Here is a list of organisations and resources to be aware of during these times:

Mental health and wellbeing

Your GP is usually your first point of contact to discuss mental health and wellbeing concerns. Alternatively, you can contact 111 outside of GP opening hours or your local CAMHS Crisis Team. Contact 999 or visit A&E in emergencies. You can also find resources and support from the below:

Local Support

If you are worried about the safety of a child or young person, you can report your concerns to your Local Authority's Safeguarding Team.

Student Return Dates and Times

Year 7 and Year 12 Induction will take place on Wednesday 4th September. Information will be sent to parent/carers separately.

For other year groups, students’ first day will be Thursday 5th September, with all students expected to arrive by 8.25am for registration at 8.30am. The first two lessons will be an induction, allowing for students to receive their timetable, school contact books and complete tutor activities. From Period 3, lessons will begin.

Uniform Reminders

Students are required to wear full school uniform with pride, making for a positive learning environment. Students who do not comply with uniform expectations will be sent home to change into correct uniform and return to school. Key reminders are below.

Footwear

Students should wear black leather shoes, not trainers or boots. Please check the website for examples of shoes acceptable to wear.

Prohibited Uniform Items

A reminder that students are not allowed to wear acrylic nails, smart watches, hoodies and earphones. Students are permitted to wear one stud earring in each ear and a nose stud. Any other jewellery is not permitted and is not to be worn to school.

Year 9 - Key Stage 4 Blue Shirts

Students in Year 8 currently will need to purchase a blue shirt for next academic year as they go into Year 9 as part of the Upper School.

You can find a link to our uniform requirements and suppliers using this link.

Supporting SNS Hub

Last week, we launched our awareness and fundraising campaign for SNS Hub, opening in 2026. Thank you to all who have donated or connected us with potential supporters. Your help, including sharing our website links, is greatly appreciated. You can find a link to the website using this link.

We seek partnerships with local businesses and organisations for financial support, equipment donations, or student opportunities. Donations can be made directly via GoFundMe. For specific items or corporate sponsorship, contact Mr Aaron Critoph, Assistant Headteacher, Director of SNS Hub, at hub@sns.hackney.sch.uk.

Team Sports Kit Sponsorship

The PE department is updating the team kits for SNS students. We seek sponsorship from local businesses, charities, or organisations to promote their brand on our kits during competitions in London and the South-East.

We need sponsors for boys' and girls' football kits, a basketball kit, or a netball kit. If you know any potential sponsors, please contact Ms Simone Hamilton at Sim.Ham@sns.hackney.sch.uk. We can provide detailed cost information for each kit.

Term Dates 2024 - 2025, Cultural Events, Opportunities in the Community and Summer Activity Events

Please see a link to our term dates here.

You can also find information on local cultural events here and opportunities in the community here.

Alongside this, you can find attached information of summer activities taking place this year within the area using this link.

As we close the year, I would like to thank all the students for their hard work and enthusiasm. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all staff, teaching and non-teaching, for all that you do to enrich the learning experience of the children. Lastly, I would like to thank you, our parents and carers, for your support and partnership throughout the year, helping secure the best for our young people.

Wishing you a restful and enjoyable summer break, affording opportunities to connect with family and friends, moments of exploration, and creating happy memories.

With best wishes,

Zehra Jaffer